Barker

Origin and Meaning: The surname Barker is of English origin, derived from the Middle English word "barkere," which means a tanner or one who cures animal hides. It is an occupational name often given to individuals who worked as barkers or tanners in medieval England.

History: The Barker surname has ancient roots in England, dating back to the Middle Ages. It was a common occupational name given to those who practiced the craft of tanning and curing animal hides. The barkers played a crucial role in the production of leather goods, which were highly valued in ancient society for various purposes such as clothing, footwear, and accessories.

Distribution and Popularity: The Barker surname is widespread in the United Kingdom and has been carried by numerous notable individuals throughout history. It is particularly common in England, with concentrations in regions such as Yorkshire, Lancashire, and London. The name has also spread to other English-speaking countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

Famous Bearers:

  • Clive Barker (b. 1952): British author, film director, and visual artist known for his works in horror fiction.
  • Maybelle Barker (1917-2011): English actress who appeared in numerous films and television shows during the mid-20th century.
  • Travis Barker (b. 1975): American musician and songwriter, best known as the drummer for the rock band Blink-182.

Variants: Variants of the Barker surname include Barks, Bark, Barkar, Barke, and Balker.

Coat of Arms: The Barker family crest typically features symbols associated with the tanning industry, such as hides, tanning tools, or stylized representations of bark.

Modern Usage: The Barker surname remains popular today, with many individuals proudly bearing the name as a link to their ancestral heritage. It continues to be passed down through generations, symbolizing the craftsmanship and hard work of the early barkers in England.

Overall, the Barker surname holds a rich history and legacy within British society, reflecting the importance of skilled trades and craftsmanship in the development of medieval England.

There are approximately 63,452 people named Barker in the UK. That makes it the 103rd most common surname in Britain. Around 974 in a million people in Britain are named Barker.

Surname type: Occupational name

Origin: English

Region of origin: British Isles

Country of origin: England

Religion of origin: Christian

Language of origin: English

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Andrew
  • Christopher
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Richard
  • Robert
  • Stephen

Female

  • Christine
  • Claire
  • Elizabeth
  • Emma
  • Helen
  • Julie
  • Karen
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Sarah
  • Susan

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